Bali is popular with expats because of its way of life, many go there with the aim of working remotely and enjoying the islands, the sea and its nature. If you compare this to a city like Bangkok, there is a huge difference. After COVID-19, many wanted to move away from the cities to find a more balanced lifestyle.
I enjoy going to Bali because I can get out of the city, I run a few races there each year, and I find that a great way to see more of Bali.
In this article, I will cover the parts I like about Bali, and how you can invest as an expat in Bal,i with a summary at the end.
Here are blogs I have written on Bali and residency in the area:
- Bali Residency Options: A Comprehensive Guide
- Is Buying a Condo in Thailand Still a Good Investment in 2025?
- 2025: Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Visa
- Ultimate Guide to Living in Kuala Lumpur in 2025
If you have any questions, please contact me using my contact page.
Reasons Bali is Great
Expats: The expat community in Bali is unlike any other. It’s vibrant and diverse, filled with people who are as passionate about their work as they are about exploring the world. Networking and collaboration happen naturally here, often over coffee or while catching the sunset at the beach.
Affordability: Living well does not have to be expensive. Affordable housing, food, and entertainment options make it possible to enjoy a high quality of life on a modest budget in Bali – on the flip side, you can also spend a lot of money and live really well in Bali.
Beautiful Bali: Inspiration is everywhere. Whether it’s the rolling waves on the beaches or the tranquil rice terraces, Bali’s natural scenery is a constant source of awe and motivation.
Work-Life Balance: In a city, this can potentially be harder to achieve; however, in Bali, it feels easier because within a moment, you can be in a beautiful spot, forgetting about the troubles of the day!
Things to Watch Out For
- Internet and Infrastructure: Being on islands, internet can sometimes drop out, it doesn’t usually stay down for extended periods of time as we now all need the internet, but know that it happens!
- Traffic: Increased in peak seasons, make sure you have a way to travel around the island
- Tourism: The influx of people coming to the area differs hugely. Know which areas to find refuge when you need it.
- Environmental Issues: With many islands and an influx of tourism, it’s building facilities to manage the amount of waste it creates.
Where to Stay
Bali offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious villas. Here’s a snapshot of the areas where I’ve spent time and what makes each unique:
- Canggu – Canggu is where I go to find activities like surfing, kayaking, and enjoy the beaches.
- Ubud – Whenever I seek inspiration and tranquillity, it’s incredibly peaceful.
- Seminyak – Seminyak is where I go to find a city-like lifestyle.
Investing as an Expat
As an expat in Bali, I’ve also explored investment avenues to plan for the future. Here are a few platforms I’ve found useful:
Saxo Bank
- What It Offers: Saxo Bank is great for its diverse range of trading and investment products – everything from stocks to forex.
- Why I Like It: It provides sophisticated research tools, which help in making informed investment decisions, suited for both newbies and seasoned traders.
Saxo Bank vs Other Platforms Review
Ardan International
- Tailored Solutions: This platform excels in offering personalised investment management and retirement planning.
- User Experience: Known for great customer service, it’s ideal for expats who need tailored financial planning.
Novia Global
- Flexibility: Novia Global allows easy access to a variety of markets and investment options.
- Platform Perks: Its user-friendly interface and ability to customise portfolios make it suitable for individual and institutional clients.
These platforms cater to different needs, so it’s worth diving into what each offers to find the right fit for your financial goals.
Legal Requirements
Visa Information
I started with a Tourist Visa, which is valid for 30 days and extendable for another 30. For longer stays, the Social, Tourist, or Cultural Visit Visa (B211A) is a popular choice, enabling stays of up to 180 days.
Work Regulations
While Indonesia is evolving to accommodate digital nomads, it’s important to stay informed about work regulations to ensure you’re abiding by local laws.
Internet and Connectivity
Bali offers decent internet connections, which are generally reliable, though occasional slowdowns occur. Here’s how I stay connected:
- SIM Cards: Telkomsel and XL offer reliable mobile data plans.
- Coworking Spots and Cafes: Perfect for reliable connectivity and a change of scenery.
Health and Safety
To ensure peace of mind while here:
- Healthcare: Bali boasts several international-standard clinics, especially in Seminyak and Kuta.
- Insurance: Having health insurance is a must, and there are plenty of plans to choose from, both local and international.
Cultural Considerations
Diving into Bali’s culture is deeply rewarding:
- Religion: Bali’s predominant Hindu culture enriches the experience, from beautiful temples to daily offerings seen throughout the island.
- Etiquette: Always dress respectfully in temples and remember to remove your shoes when entering homes.
Best Banks in Bali for Expats
Setting up a local bank account has proven beneficial:
Bank Central Asia (BCA)
- Pros: Vast ATM network and robust online services.
- Cons: Some language barriers; higher initial deposits can be required.
Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI)
- Pros: Excellent customer service and appealing rates.
- Cons: Fewer ATMs than some other banks.
Bank Mandiri
- Pros: Comprehensive branch and ATM network.
- Cons: Service can vary, and some fees tend to be higher.
Bank Mandiri – Leading, Trusted, Growing With You
CIMB Niaga
- Pros: Good customer service with a user-friendly platform.
- Cons: Smaller branch network compared to larger banks.
Final Thoughts
Bali is a popular destination for expats seeking a balanced lifestyle, remote work opportunities, and natural beauty. The island offers a vibrant expat community, affordable living, and stunning scenery, making it an ideal place for those looking to escape city life. However, expats should be aware of occasional internet issues, traffic during peak seasons, and environmental challenges due to tourism.
For those interested in investing, Bali provides various opportunities through platforms like Saxo Bank, Ardan International, and Novia Global. It’s essential to understand the legal requirements, such as visa options and work regulations, to ensure compliance. Additionally, having reliable internet connectivity, health insurance, and knowledge of local cultural practices can enhance the expat experience in Bali.
Blogs that will help you:
- Bali Residency Options: A Comprehensive Guide
- Residency in Malaysia: Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)
- Thailand 2024 Tax Reforms Explained
Expats typically start with a 30-day Tourist Visa, which can be extended once. For longer stays, the B211A Social, Tourist, or Cultural Visit Visa allows up to 180 days. Digital nomads and retirees may explore evolving long-stay options as Indonesia updates its visa framework.
Yes, Bali offers a vibrant expat community, affordable living, and scenic coworking spaces. While the internet can occasionally drop, most areas (like Canggu and Seminyak) have reliable connectivity and plenty of cafés and hubs for remote work.
Popular banks include BCA, BNI, Mandiri, and CIMB Niaga. Each offers different strengths; BCA has a wide ATM network, while CIMB Niaga is known for its user-friendly platform. Expats should consider language support, fees, and branch access when choosing a bank.
